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A message about the first home football game

As the University of Iowa prepares for an exciting weekend, we would like to take a moment to remind our students and visitors to keep safety top of mind and look out for their fellow Hawkeyes.

As an institution, we are taking steps to enhance game-day security and spread the word about free services intended to help enhance the public's safety. If you're heading to the football game, plan to arrive early and make yourself familiar with security procedures. All exterior gates will be open 90 minutes before kickoff.

Here is a brief reminder about what's allowed in the stadium:

Blankets and seat cushions (without back support)

1 bottle of water (sealed and non-flavored)

Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12"

Clutch bags that do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5"

1-gallon clear, plastic bag

For detailed information on what is allowed inside the stadium, visit: footballgameday.hawkeyesports.com/allowed-items.

For more information on game-day parking and transportation, visit: footballgameday.hawkeyesports.com/parking.

Whether you're headed to the game or spending time in downtown Iowa City, it's always good to remember that if you see something, say something. Report suspicious activity by calling 319-335-5022. In case of emergency, dial 911.

If you are 21 and older and choose to drink, drink responsibly. Do not drive while intoxicated, get separated from your friends, or leave your friends behind.

The UI Department of Public Safety offers NITE RIDE, a free ride service offered to people of all genders between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Students can arrange a ride by visiting the NITE RIDE website, calling 319-384-1111, or flagging down a SHOUT student, a student ambassador trained in bystander intervention and overall safety who patrols areas during student events. Users also can pay $1 for an express ride directly to their final destination.

Students may also download the Rave Guardian app to communicate with the UI Police Department via text message or request a guardian to monitor their commute. To download the free app, visit the App Store or Google Play and search for Rave Guardian. Once the app is downloaded, users create a profile using their UI email address to gain access to the campus network. More information on Rave Guardian is available online atpolice.uiowa.edu/about/services/rave-guardian.

Students and visitors should always be aware of their surroundings. Never risk injury for material items, and be vigilant. If you feel uneasy about a situation, trust your instincts. Being an active bystander doesn't require that you put yourself at risk; get somewhere safe and call the police.

We're all Hawkeyes, and safety is a team effort. Please look after one another this weekend, make yourself familiar with campus services, and play an active role in making our campus a safe place to live, learn, and celebrate.

Go Hawks!

Scott Beckner
Assistant Vice President and Director of Public Safety
UI Police, 319-335-5022

Melissa Shivers
Vice President for Student Life
UI Division of Student Life, 319-335-3557